The rhythm of life in Bali flows in harmony with the Pawukon calendar, a sacred system that guides ceremonies, rituals, and daily life. Among its most celebrated moments is Galungan, which falls on Buda Kliwon Dungulan, a Wednesday in the wuku Dungulan cycle. It marks the triumph of Dharma (goodness) over Adharma (darkness) and the descent of ancestral spirits to the earthly realm. Preparations begin six days earlier with Sugian Jawa and Sugian Bali, dedicated to purifying both the outer world (bhuana agung) and the inner self (bhuana alit). In Ubud, temples are cleaned and re-clothed in fresh white and yellow fabrics, while families prepare offerings that symbolize inner clarity and devotion.
As Galungan approaches, days of reflection and preparation unfold, penyekeban teaches restraint, Penyajaan brings colorful jaja (rice cakes) as symbols of sincerity, and Penampahan, the eve of Galungan, fills villages with the sounds of preparation and the sight of penjor gracefully lining the streets. On Galungan Day, Bali is bathed in devotion. Women in kebaya carry towering offerings, gamelan melodies drift through the air, and families welcome ancestral spirits home with prayers and gratitude. The following day, Manis Galungan, is filled with visits, laughter, and blessings shared among loved ones.
Ten days later, Kuningan Day completes the cycle. Spirits are believed to ascend back to the heavens as families adorn their shrines with tamiang kolem, circular ornaments made of young coconut leaves that symbolize protection and the eternal balance of life. The next day, Umanis Kuningan, brings offerings of yellow rice to honor divine grace and prosperity before daily life resumes in peaceful rhythm.
Galungan Celebration Program at Adiwana Svarga Loka
Activity: Making Gebogan and Penjor
📅 Anggara Wage Dungulan (Penampahan Galungan Day)
📍 Banyan Area, Adiwana Svarga Loka
- Afternoon Activity: Watch and join our team in preparing gebogan – traditional fruit and cake offerings arranged beautifully to honor prosperity and gratitude and witness the creation and decoration of penjor, tall bamboo poles adorned with coconut leaves, palm leaves and paddy, symbolizing devotion to the divine.
- Culinary Tradition: Experience the making of lawar, a signature Balinese dish prepared together with our Food & Beverage team, using fresh spices and traditional techniques.
Galungan Day – The Day of Celebration
Buda Kliwon Dungulan
- Morning Prayers: Join our staff and community at the resort shrines, where offerings, incense, and flowers are presented to welcome ancestral spirits.
- Cultural Immersion: Walk through the entrance of the resort decorated with penjor and gebogan in the temple, experiencing the sacred beauty of Galungan in every corner.
- Guest Participation: Guests are warmly invited to observe or take part in simple offering rituals, gaining a deeper understanding of Balinese spirituality.
Kuningan Day Program at Adiwana Svarga Loka
Activity: Tamiang Kolem Making
📅 Sukra Wage Kuningan (Penampahan Kuningan Day)
📍 Banyan Area, Adiwana Svarga Loka
Program Details:
- Introduction: Learn about the meaning of Kuningan Day, when ancestral spirits return to the heavens after visiting during Galungan.
- Cultural Insight: Discover the symbolism of Tamiang Kolem, a circular ornament made from young coconut leaves that represents protection, balance, and the eternal cycle of life.
- Hands-On Workshop: Guided by our Balinese team, guests will try weaving their own Tamiang Kolem using traditional techniques.
- Ceremonial Placement: Together, we will place the finished ornaments in front of the guest’s room as part of the Kuningan offerings.
Join us at Adiwana Svarga Loka in this unique activity to honor Balinese tradition, connect with the culture of Ubud, and take part in a sacred ritual of gratitude and harmony. Please book in advance.
